Proverbs 16:24–17:18

24  Pleasant words are as a honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health for the bones.

25  There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof is the ways of death.

26  The appetite of the labourer laboureth for him, for his mouth urgeth him on.

27  A man of Belial diggeth up evil, and on his lips there is as a scorching fire. 28  A false man soweth contention; and a talebearer separateth very friends.

29  A violent man enticeth his neighbour, and leadeth him into a way that is not good. 30  He that shutteth his eyes, it is to devise froward things; biting his lips, he bringeth evil to pass.

31  The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it is found in the way of righteousness.

32  He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.

33  The lot is cast into the lap; but the whole decision is of Jehovah.

Chapter 17

1  Better is a dry morsel, and quietness therewith, than a house full of feasting with strife.

2  A wise servant shall rule over a son that causeth shame, and shall have part in the inheritance among the brethren.

3  The fining-pot is for silver, and the furnace for gold; but Jehovah trieth the hearts.

4  The evil-doer giveth heed to iniquitous lips; the liar giveth ear to a mischievous tongue.

5  Whoso mocketh a poor man reproacheth his Maker; he that is glad at calamity shall not be held innocent.

6  Children’s children are the crown of old men; and the glory of children are their fathers.

7  Excellent speech becometh not a vile man; how much less do lying lips a noble!

8  A gift is a precious stone in the eyes of the possessor: whithersoever it turneth it prospereth.

9  He that covereth transgression seeketh love; but he that bringeth a matter up again separateth very friends.

10  A reproof entereth more deeply into him that hath understanding than a hundred stripes into a fool.

11  An evil man seeketh only rebellion; but a cruel messenger shall be sent against him.

12  Let a bear robbed of her whelps meet a man rather than a fool in his folly.

13  Whoso rewardeth evil for good, evil shall not depart from his house.

14  The beginning of contention is as when one letteth out water; therefore leave off strife before it become vehement.

15  He that justifieth the wicked, and he that condemneth the righteous, even they both are abomination to Jehovah.

16  To what purpose is there a price in the hand of a fool to get wisdom, seeing he hath no sense?

17  The friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.

18  A senseless man striketh hands, becoming surety for his neighbour.